We All are Europe - AESAEC

Module 4 – The Grundtvig Initiative on Volunteering in Europe for Seniors (GIVE)
Now read the final report written by a volunteer and see how the project turned out to
be successful in practice. Which were the key elements for the success of the project
FINAL REPORT OF THE VOLUNTEER
Antonio, Italian volunteer
PRACTICAL ASPECT:
I already had some previous experience in Rome. I did voluntary work in a
community house for abandoned children. I can’t speak Hungarian and my
English is quite basic. Upon my arrival I felt immediately in tune with the
employees of the organisation. Only one of the employees spoke a little English,
and she was essential for the success of my stay there. My task was to
support those responsible for buying and distributing food and other basic
items. It was also the best place to have contact with the reality of homelessness.
From the start the co-operation has been constructive and friendly
despite the language difficulties. We used sign language most of the time
and their kindness, spontaneity and care did the rest. I was well housed,
staying in a guesthouse with English breakfast near the centre in Budapest
(an interesting and very beautiful city). During the daily activities I had
lunch with the organisation’s volunteers. I felt at home because I had all
that I needed during the day and the people who I met there treated me in a
friendly way. I felt fully satisfied with the visit.
SOCIAL AND HUMAN ASPECTS:
First of all I am very happy to have had this experience. Even if I had stayed
there for a shorter period I think that the benefit of this experience for
spirit and mind would still have been higher than originally expected. I tried
to live this experience in the best way from the start. For example, one day
I attended a mass (ecumenical rite) for homeless people. During it a woman
burst out crying as she told us her experience. This memory will be stamped
on my mind for ever as well as the silence and the expression of the other
people attending the mass. Doing voluntary work in one’s own country is
natural but to go and help people in other countries is something that perhaps
everyone should do. I believe it is necessary to be determined, resolute
and conscious of what somebody wants to give.
ADVICE, SUGGESTION
I consider that this experience should be encountered on an individual basis
to stimulate a spirit of integration. Two weeks is too short a time if someone
does not have an open mind. English is essential, but it is also necessary
to be interested, motivated, friendly and curious.
4.2.3. Thinking of possible volunteering projects
Volunteering projects vary according to factors such as local needs and the volunteer’s interests and
motivation. In small groups discuss the following topics:
Could the project described above be implemented in your country Why Why not
Is the topic of the project relevant / of high priority in your country Why Why not
Can you think of other volunteering project topics that could be relevant to the local needs of
your community
Compare your group’s ideas with those of other groups and save your project ideas to be discussed
further in the following units of this module.
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